§ Mr. Richard Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning local authority cuts in personal social services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir George YoungI have received a number of representations from local authorities, professional bodies and individuals about the effects of proposed or actual reductions in the personal social services.
Local authorities must live within their resources and this may require them to make some reductions in their expenditure on their personal social services. It is for each authority to determine how best to deploy its resources to meet the needs of their area and I expect all authorities in determining the pattern of their services to have regard to those most in need. I also expect them to seek new and imaginative forms of co-operation with the voluntary sector, to ensure that all available resources are used to the greatest effect.